DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS? Knowing His Name Is Not the Same as Knowing Him! Key Scripture — Acts 19:14–16 (KJV) “And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.” Thought Of The Day... There is a tremendous difference between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Jesus. Acts 19 gives us a powerful and sobering picture of this truth. The seven sons of Sceva had heard about the miracles taking place through the Apostle Paul. They had witnessed or heard reports of demons being cast out and lives being transformed through the name of Jesus. They saw the results, but they did not understand the relationship behind the results. They wanted the authority Paul demonstrated without possessing the relationship Paul had. They attempted to use the name of Jesus almost like a spiritual formula. Earlier in the passage they said: “We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.” — Acts 19:13 (KJV) Notice their language. They did not say, “Jesus whom we know.” They said, “Jesus whom Paul preacheth.” Jesus was Paul's testimony, but He had not become their personal testimony. And that raises a serious question for every believer: Do you know Jesus for yourself? It is possible to grow up in church and still only know about Jesus. It is possible to know Scripture and still not truly surrender to Jesus. It is possible to sing about Jesus, preach about Jesus, teach about Jesus, shout about Jesus, and even use the name of Jesus—yet lack a genuine relationship with Him. Christianity was never intended to be secondhand. You cannot survive spiritually forever on your mother's relationship with God, your father's prayers, your pastor's anointing, your bishop's revelation, your spouse's faith, or your grandmother's testimony. Eventually, you must know Him for yourself. Paul could say: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV) Paul wasn't satisfied merely knowing facts about Christ. His desire was, “That I may know Him.” “JESUS I KNOW, AND PAUL I KNOW; BUT WHO ARE YE?” These may be some of the most sobering words in Acts. The evil spirit responded: “Jesus I know.” There was no confusion in the kingdom of darkness concerning Jesus. The demons knew exactly who He was. During Jesus' earthly ministry, an unclean spirit cried: “I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.” — Mark 1:24 (KJV) James gives us another sobering reminder: “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” — James 2:19 (KJV) Simply acknowledging that Jesus exists is not the same as belonging to Him. But then the spirit said something else: “Paul I know.” Why was Paul recognized? Because Paul's life demonstrated that he belonged to Jesus. Paul wasn't borrowing somebody else's faith. He had encountered Christ for himself. His authority did not come from merely repeating Jesus' name; it flowed from his relationship with and commission from Jesus. Then came the devastating question: “BUT WHO ARE YE?” In other words, You are using the name, but where is your relationship with the One whose name you are using? The sons of Sceva discovered that the name of Jesus is not a magical phrase. There is power in the name of Jesus because of who Jesus is. Jesus declared: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” — Matthew 28:18 (KJV) His name represents His person, His authority, His victory, His lordship and His kingdom. We must never reduce the name of Jesus to something we merely shout when we are in trouble. His name belongs to the Savior to whom we surrender our lives. DO YOU KNOW THE JESUS YOU CALL ON? Jesus is more than a name mentioned at the end of a prayer. He is the Son of God. “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” — Matthew 16:16 (KJV) He is the Savior. “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” — Luke 19:10 (KJV) He is the Way to the Father. “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” — John 14:6 (KJV) He is the Resurrection and the Life. “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.” — John 11:25 (KJV) He is Lord. “And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” — Philippians 2:11 (KJV) The question is not merely, “Have you heard about Him?” The question is: Have you trusted Him? Have you surrendered to Him? Are you following Him? Are you walking with Him? Does your life belong to Him? YOU CANNOT BORROW SOMEBODY ELSE'S ANOINTING The sons of Sceva tried to imitate what they saw Paul doing. But spiritual authority cannot be copied like a technique. You can imitate someone's preaching style. You can imitate someone's prayer language. You can imitate someone's worship. You can repeat someone's favorite Scriptures. But you cannot imitate their relationship with God. Jesus said: “Abide in me, and I in you… for without me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:4–5 (KJV) Our strength comes from abiding in Christ. The greatest danger is not weakness that drives us toward Jesus. The greater danger is trying to operate spiritually while disconnected from Him. The seven sons discovered this painfully. The possessed man “overcame them, and prevailed against them.” They entered believing they had authority they did not possess and left “naked and wounded.” There is a warning here: Never attempt to substitute religious activity for genuine relationship with Christ. YOUR PRIVATE WALK MATTERS Before Paul stood publicly in authority, he had privately surrendered his life to Jesus. Our public Christianity must be supported by a private relationship with God. Who are you when there is no microphone? Who are you when there is no congregation? Who are you when nobody sees you praying? Who are you when temptation comes? Who are you when life becomes difficult? Do you still trust Jesus when there is nobody around to applaud your faith? Jesus said: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.” — John 8:31 (KJV) Real discipleship is demonstrated through continued fellowship, obedience, faith and dependence upon Christ. KNOW HIM BEFORE THE BATTLE COMES Don't wait until trouble arrives to try to discover who Jesus is. Know Him now. Know Him in prayer. Know Him through His Word. Know Him in worship. Know Him through obedience. Know Him when everything is going well so that when everything begins falling apart, you already know where your help comes from. David could face Goliath because David already knew God before Goliath appeared. Daniel could face the lions because Daniel knew God before he entered the den. The three Hebrew boys could face the fiery furnace because they knew God before Nebuchadnezzar heated it. Paul could endure persecution because he knew the Christ for whom he suffered. And when your day of testing comes, you need more than something somebody told you about Jesus. You need to be able to declare: I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! Job said: “For I know that my redeemer liveth…” — Job 19:25 (KJV) There are some storms where somebody else's testimony will not be enough. You need your own history with God. You need memories of prayers He answered. You need moments when His Word carried you. You need times when you experienced His grace. You need the confidence to declare: I know who Jesus is because I have walked with Him for myself! THE QUESTION STILL STANDS Acts 19 leaves us with a question that should cause every believer to examine his or her heart: DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS? Not just the Jesus your pastor preaches. Not just the Jesus your parents taught you about. Not just the Jesus you heard about in Sunday School. But Jesus Christ for yourself. And perhaps an even deeper question is: DOES YOUR LIFE SHOW THAT YOU KNOW HIM? Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27 (KJV) Knowing Jesus should produce following Jesus. Following Jesus should produce obedience. Obedience should produce transformation. And transformation should cause our lives to testify that we have been with Jesus. PRAYER... Father, in the name of Jesus, Thank You for revealing Your Son to us. Lord, forgive us for every time we have been satisfied with simply knowing about Jesus instead of developing a deeper relationship with Him. We don't want secondhand faith. We don't want borrowed convictions. We don't want to depend solely upon somebody else's prayers, testimony or relationship with You. Lord Jesus, we want to know You for ourselves. Draw us closer to You. Give us a hunger for Your Word, a desire for prayer, a heart of worship and a spirit willing to obey Your voice. Search our hearts and remove everything that has created distance between us and You. Teach us not merely to speak Your name but to honor Your name with the way we live. When temptation comes, remind us who You are. When storms arise, remind us who You are. When fear attacks, remind us who You are. When the enemy challenges our faith, help us stand firmly upon the authority of Your Word. May our lives testify that we belong to Jesus Christ. And Lord, let our greatest desire always be the cry of Paul: “That I may know him.” We want to know You more deeply, love You more completely, trust You more confidently, obey You more faithfully, and represent You more boldly. In the mighty, matchless, powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. DECLARATION... I DECLARE that I will not live on borrowed faith! I know who Jesus is! Jesus is my Savior. Jesus is my Redeemer. Jesus is my Lord. Jesus is my Deliverer. Jesus is my Rock. Jesus is my Strength. Jesus is my Hope. Jesus is my King! I will seek Him, follow Him, obey Him and grow deeper in my relationship with Him. I refuse to merely know about Jesus. I WILL KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! And when life asks me, “Do you know who Jesus is?” My faith, my testimony, my obedience and my life will answer: YES! I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV) Enjoy your Sunday Church Services and God Bless!

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN MEMORIZE: "As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth." Psalm 127:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 1 KINGS 1:15-31 15 And Bathsheba went in unto the king into the chamber: and the king was very old; and Abishag the Shunammite ministered unto the king. 16 And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? 17 And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the Lord thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. 18 And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not: 19 And he hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the sons of the king, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the captain of the host: but Solomon thy servant hath he not called. 20 And thou, my lord, O king, the eyes of all Israel are upon thee, that thou shouldest tell them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21 Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders. 22 And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in. 23 And they told the king, saying, Behold Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the king, he bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground. 24 And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? 25 For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king's sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah. 26 But me, even me thy servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and thy servant Solomon, hath he not called. 27 Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed it unto thy servant, who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him? 28 Then king David answered and said, Call me Bathsheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29 And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30 Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31 Then Bathsheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, and said, Let my lord king David live for ever. MESSAGE: In (1 Kings 1:1-49), one of King David's sons decided to crown himself king by staging a coup to overthrow his father. Solomon's mother was informed of the development, so she went to David and reminded him that he had promised that her son would succeed him as king. That same day, Solomon was crowned king meaning that Israel had three kings on that fateful day: David, Solomon, and the son who decided to make himself king. Solomon might not even have been aware of the events that led to his coronation; however, because his mother rose and entreated the king on his behalf, he was crowned king. There are certain things that children might miss if their parents don't rise to pray for them. A child may not know his or her left from right and may not even be qualified for an exalted position; however, his or her parents' prayers can elevate that child into that position. The authority that parents have over their children, both naturally and spiritually, is great, and they must learn to use it effectively. Any parent who does not pray for his or her child is like a mother hen who watches as a hawk carries her chick away, leaving the chick to fight for itself. The chick lacks sufficient strength to fight a hawk; however, if its mother joins in the fight, it would have a better chance of being saved. If you are a parent, do not keep quiet over your children's destiny so that the devil will not tamper with it. Cry out to God to show your children mercy early in their lives. In Psalm 90:14, Moses prayed that God should satisfy him and the children of Israel early with His mercy so that they would rejoice and be glad all the days of their lives. He knew that the secret to lasting joy and gladness was to start enjoying God's mercy early in life. Beloved, if you are a parent, do not neglect your spiritual responsibility over your children. Like Moses, ask God to show your children His mercy early in their lives. Let your prayers position them for opportunities early in life. Your children will begin to enjoy supernatural favour that some people only get to experience as adults if you pray for them now. I pray that God will shower His mercies over you and your household, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Parents should not neglect their spiritual responsibility over their children. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 3 - 5 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 28 - GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH 1. Guide me, 0 Thou Great Jehovah Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven! Feed me now and evermore (2ce). 2. Open Thou the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Song deliverer! Song deliverer! Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce). 3. If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan's side: Songs of praises! Songs of praises! I will ever give to Thee (2ce). 4. Saviour, come! We long to see thee, long to dwell with thee above and to know in full communion, all the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus! Take thy waiting people home (2ce). [22/08, 10:03 pm] +234 806 008 5461: ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SUNDAY, 23RD AUGUST, 2026 *PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the gift of children. Thank You for Your promise to bless us and make us fruitful, to multiply and to replenish the earth. 2.Father, thank You for Your promise in Your word that none of Your children will be barren. Thank You because You will visit every awaiting couple with children according to Your will. 3.Father, as arrows are in the hands of a mighty man, please empower all Your children to fulfill Your purpose for their lives, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please help all Your children never to go out of Your plan and purpose for their lives. Help them to patiently wait on Your guidance and commands, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help each parent never to fail in their role to pray for their children at all times, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please help me as a father/mother to command the children You have given me after You, so they won't miss Your purpose in life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, please help me as a child to my parents not to fail in my role in walking in the godly counsel of my parents, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please show me and all the children You have given me, Your mercy and favour. Satisfy us early so we can rejoice and be glad all the days of our lives, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, please strengthen all parents to arise in their spiritual responsibility over the children You have given them, and let all their children begin to enjoy supernatural favour, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please let all the children You have given me bring me joy and shower them and every member of my household with Your mercies, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Help him to enjoy the fruits of his labour over his children, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.[22/08, 7:06 pm] +234 806 008 5461: OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN MEMORIZE: "As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth." Psalm 127:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 1 KINGS 1:15-31 15 And Bathsheba went in unto the king into the chamber: and the king was very old; and Abishag the Shunammite ministered unto the king. 16 And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? 17 And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the Lord thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. 18 And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not: 19 And he hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the sons of the king, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the captain of the host: but Solomon thy servant hath he not called. 20 And thou, my lord, O king, the eyes of all Israel are upon thee, that thou shouldest tell them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21 Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders. 22 And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in. 23 And they told the king, saying, Behold Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the king, he bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground. 24 And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? 25 For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king's sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah. 26 But me, even me thy servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and thy servant Solomon, hath he not called. 27 Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed it unto thy servant, who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him? 28 Then king David answered and said, Call me Bathsheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29 And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30 Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31 Then Bathsheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, and said, Let my lord king David live for ever. MESSAGE: In (1 Kings 1:1-49), one of King David's sons decided to crown himself king by staging a coup to overthrow his father. Solomon's mother was informed of the development, so she went to David and reminded him that he had promised that her son would succeed him as king. That same day, Solomon was crowned king meaning that Israel had three kings on that fateful day: David, Solomon, and the son who decided to make himself king. Solomon might not even have been aware of the events that led to his coronation; however, because his mother rose and entreated the king on his behalf, he was crowned king. There are certain things that children might miss if their parents don't rise to pray for them. A child may not know his or her left from right and may not even be qualified for an exalted position; however, his or her parents' prayers can elevate that child into that position. The authority that parents have over their children, both naturally and spiritually, is great, and they must learn to use it effectively. Any parent who does not pray for his or her child is like a mother hen who watches as a hawk carries her chick away, leaving the chick to fight for itself. The chick lacks sufficient strength to fight a hawk; however, if its mother joins in the fight, it would have a better chance of being saved. If you are a parent, do not keep quiet over your children's destiny so that the devil will not tamper with it. Cry out to God to show your children mercy early in their lives. In Psalm 90:14, Moses prayed that God should satisfy him and the children of Israel early with His mercy so that they would rejoice and be glad all the days of their lives. He knew that the secret to lasting joy and gladness was to start enjoying God's mercy early in life. Beloved, if you are a parent, do not neglect your spiritual responsibility over your children. Like Moses, ask God to show your children His mercy early in their lives. Let your prayers position them for opportunities early in life. Your children will begin to enjoy supernatural favour that some people only get to experience as adults if you pray for them now. I pray that God will shower His mercies over you and your household, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Parents should not neglect their spiritual responsibility over their children. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 3 - 5 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 28 - GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH 1. Guide me, 0 Thou Great Jehovah Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven! Feed me now and evermore (2ce). 2. Open Thou the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Song deliverer! Song deliverer! Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce). 3. If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan's side: Songs of praises! Songs of praises! I will ever give to Thee (2ce). 4. Saviour, come! We long to see thee, long to dwell with thee above and to know in full communion, all the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus! Take thy waiting people home (2ce). ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SUNDAY, 23RD AUGUST, 2026 *PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the gift of children. Thank You for Your promise to bless us and make us fruitful, to multiply and to replenish the earth. 2.Father, thank You for Your promise in Your word that none of Your children will be barren. Thank You because You will visit every awaiting couple with children according to Your will. 3.Father, as arrows are in the hands of a mighty man, please empower all Your children to fulfill Your purpose for their lives, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please help all Your children never to go out of Your plan and purpose for their lives. Help them to patiently wait on Your guidance and commands, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help each parent never to fail in their role to pray for their children at all times, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please help me as a father/mother to command the children You have given me after You, so they won't miss Your purpose in life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, please help me as a child to my parents not to fail in my role in walking in the godly counsel of my parents, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please show me and all the children You have given me, Your mercy and favour. Satisfy us early so we can rejoice and be glad all the days of our lives, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, please strengthen all parents to arise in their spiritual responsibility over the children You have given them, and let all their children begin to enjoy supernatural favour, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please let all the children You have given me bring me joy and shower them and every member of my household with Your mercies, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Help him to enjoy the fruits of his labour over his children, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

Strength Is Found in Faithfulness Scripture Judges 16:28 (NKJV) Then Samson called to the LORD, saying, O Lord GOD, remember me, I pray! Strengthen me, I pray, just this once, O God, that I may with one blow take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes. God Can Restore the Repentant Judges 16 records one of the most tragic chapters in Samson's life. God had uniquely called him from birth to be a Nazirite and a deliverer of Israel. The Lord had given him extraordinary strength through the power of the Holy Spirit, yet Samson repeatedly compromised with temptation instead of walking in obedience. His relationship with Delilah exposed the weakness that had been growing in his heart. Rather than guarding the calling God had entrusted to him, Samson toyed with sin until it eventually overcame him. After revealing the secret connected to his Nazirite vow, his hair was cut, the Lord's empowering presence departed from him, and the Philistines captured him. They blinded him, bound him, and forced him into humiliating labor. One of the saddest statements in Scripture is that Samson did not realize that the LORD had departed from him. Sin had gradually dulled his spiritual awareness until he no longer recognized what he had lost. Yet God's grace had not reached its end. While Samson was imprisoned, his hair began to grow again. More importantly, his heart turned back to God. At the end of his life, Samson finally humbled himself and prayed. He no longer trusted in his own strength but cried out for God's strength. His final victory came not because of his ability but because of God's mercy. God answered Samson's prayer. Though Samson suffered the consequences of his disobedience, God restored him for one final act that accomplished more than many of his earlier victories. This chapter reminds believers that compromise always carries consequences, but repentance opens the door to God's mercy. Our failures do not have to be the end of our story when we return to the Lord with sincere humility. God delights in restoring those who genuinely repent and place their trust in Him. Reflection Questions 1. Is there any area of compromise that I need to confess before it grows into greater bondage? 2. Am I relying on my own strength instead of God's power? 3. Have I allowed failure to keep me from returning to the Lord, or am I trusting in His restoring grace? Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and Your willingness to restore those who turn back to You. Guard my heart from compromise and help me to walk faithfully in the calling You have given me. When I fail, lead me quickly to repentance and remind me that Your grace is greater than my weakness. Strengthen me by Your Spirit so that I may live for Your glory each day. In Jesus' name, Amen..

August 21st, 2026 Read; Galations 5:13 Freedom is a great gift, but we must know how to use it well. In Christ, we are freed from sin's dominion and from the law's condemnation, not released into moral indifference. This liberty is a blessing from God, never an excuse for selfish desire. Paul directs our freedom toward loving service: instead of using others, we willingly serve them. Christian liberty therefore does not turn us inward. It frees us to love our neighbors with kindness, patience, and practical care, reflecting the character of Christ in our relationships. Prayer Thank You, O Great God of Deliverance, for saving Daniel from the lion's den, David from the sword of Goliath, and Israel from Pharaoh's clutches. But most of all, I thank You, O Great Deliverer, for Jesus' triumph over sin at Calvary and His triumph over death at the empty tomb. I want to thank You in person for giving me my freedom. Help me use this gift of freedom to serve Your children and live for You until that time. In Jesus' precious name, I pray. Amen.

The Bible’s Big Story The Bible is one unified book telling the story of God’s glory through creation, humanity’s rebellion, God’s covenant promises, and their complete fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Everything moves toward Christ’s preeminence. The Old Testament prepares the way; the New Testament reveals Him as the fulfillment. Together they form 66 inspired books—39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New. The Old Testament (39 Books): God’s Promises and Preparation The Old Testament shows God creating the world, choosing a people, giving them His law, and promising a coming King who would fix what sin broke. It repeatedly points forward to the Messiah. Law (Pentateuch – 5 books): Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. These lay the foundation. Genesis shows creation, the fall, and God’s first promises. Exodus–Deuteronomy record God’s rescue of Israel from Egypt, the giving of the Torah at Sinai, and the covenant instructions for a holy people. Historical Books (12 books): Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1–2 Samuel, 1–2 Kings, 1–2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther. They trace Israel’s life in the Promised Land, their cycles of obedience and rebellion, the rise and fall of the monarchy, exile in Babylon, and return. They demonstrate that human kings fail, but God remains faithful to His promises. Wisdom and Poetry (5 books): Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon. These teach how to live wisely under God’s rule. They explore suffering, worship, daily righteousness, the emptiness of life without God, and the beauty of covenant love. Prophets (17 books): Major Prophets (5): Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel. Minor Prophets (12): Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi. The prophets confront idolatry, call for repentance, warn of judgment, and repeatedly promise a coming Deliverer, a new covenant, and a kingdom that will never end. The entire Old Testament builds expectation: a seed of the woman, a descendant of Abraham, a prophet like Moses, a son of David, a suffering servant, and a King who will reign forever. The New Testament (27 Books): Christ’s Arrival and the New Creation The New Testament announces that Jesus is the promised King. He is the preeminent One in whom all God’s promises find their “Yes” (2 Corinthians 1:20). It shows His life, death, resurrection, the birth of the church, and the final renewal of all things. Gospels (4 books): Matthew, Mark, Luke, John. These present Jesus from four angles: as King (Matthew), servant (Mark), perfect man (Luke), and eternal God (John). They record His teaching, miracles, crucifixion for sins, and resurrection. History (1 book): Acts. Luke’s second volume shows the Holy Spirit empowering the early church to take the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. It records the rapid spread of the message that Jesus is Lord. Letters (21 books): Paul’s Letters (13): Romans, 1–2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1–2 Thessalonians, 1–2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon. These explain the gospel, the meaning of Christ’s work, how the church should live, and how believers stand secure in Him. General Letters (8): Hebrews, James, 1–2 Peter, 1–3 John, Jude. These encourage perseverance, warn against false teaching, and call for holy living. Prophecy (1 book): Revelation. This apocalyptic letter reveals Christ as the victorious Lamb and coming King. It comforts suffering believers and shows the final defeat of evil and the making of a new heaven and new earth. How the Two Testaments Fit Together The Old Testament is not obsolete. Jesus said He came to fulfill it, not abolish it (Matthew 5:17). The New Testament constantly quotes and explains the Old, showing that Christ is the true temple, the better Moses, the perfect high priest, the faithful Israel, and the eternal King. Everything in the Bible centers on the supremacy and preeminence of Christ that we have been studying in Colossians 1. He is the goal of the Old Testament promises and the living reality of the New Testament gospel. The whole book calls you to trust Him, repent of sin, and live under His rule until He returns. If you want to go deeper into any section—especially how Colossians fits into the larger biblical theology of Christ’s preeminence—let me know which part to unpack next.

THANKFUL THURSDAY MORNING PRAYER “Lord, We Thank You for Everything!” Scripture... “O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” — Psalm 107:1 (KJV) Heavenly Father, On this Thankful Thursday morning, before we ask You for anything, we want to thank You for everything. Thank You for waking us up this morning. Thank You for watching over us through the night. Thank You for the breath in our bodies, the activity of our limbs, and the soundness of our minds. Thank You that when our eyes opened this morning, we were given another opportunity to experience Your grace, walk in Your purpose, and declare Your goodness. Your Word says: “This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24 (KJV) So today, Lord, we choose to rejoice. We may not have everything we want, but we thank You because You have been faithful to provide what we need. Thank You for What We Saw—and What We Never Saw Father, we thank You not only for the blessings we recognize, but also for the things You protected us from that we never knew were coming. Thank You for dangers seen and unseen. Thank You for doors You closed because something harmful was on the other side. Thank You for delays that frustrated us but protected us. Thank You for people You removed because they could not go where You were taking us. Thank You for the accidents that did not happen, the sickness that did not overtake us, the plans of the enemy that did not prosper, and the traps that never caught us. Your Word declares: “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper.” — Isaiah 54:17 (KJV) The weapon may have formed, but it did not win! The storm came, but it did not destroy us! The enemy attacked, but he could not cancel Your purpose! We are still here because Your hand has been upon us. Thank You for Your Mercy Father, thank You for mercy. Thank You that You did not give us what our mistakes deserved. Thank You for forgiving us when we confessed our sins. Thank You for cleansing us, restoring us, correcting us, and giving us another opportunity to get it right. Your Word says: “It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22–23 (KJV) New mercy this morning! Not yesterday's mercy. Not leftover mercy. But fresh mercy for a brand-new day. Lord, forgive us for every sin—those committed knowingly and unknowingly, in our words, thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Create in us clean hearts and renew right spirits within us. Thank You for Jesus Most of all, Father, thank You for Jesus! Thank You for the cross. Thank You for the blood. Thank You for salvation. Thank You for redemption. Thank You that the grave could not hold Him. Thank You that Jesus got up with all power in His hands! Your Word declares: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…” — John 3:16 (KJV) Jesus, thank You for loving us when we were unlovable. Thank You for reaching for us when we were running from You. Thank You for being our Savior, Lord, Advocate, Shepherd, Deliverer, and Friend. Thank You Even in Difficult Seasons Father, teach us to thank You even when life does not make sense. Your Word says: “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV) It does not say that everything that happens is good. It tells us that in everything, we can still give thanks. So even in the valley, we thank You. Even while waiting, we thank You. Even when our prayers have not yet been answered, we thank You. Even when we cannot trace Your hand, help us to trust Your heart. We believe: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God…” — Romans 8:28 (KJV) Father, take what was meant to break us and use it to build us. Take our tears and produce testimony. Take our trials and develop endurance. Take our disappointments and redirect us toward Your purpose. Lord, Touch Those Who Need Healing This morning we lift up everyone who is sick in body, troubled in mind, emotionally wounded, exhausted, grieving, or discouraged. You declared: “For I am the LORD that healeth thee.” — Exodus 15:26 (KJV) Lord, stretch forth Your healing hand. Touch those dealing with cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, lupus, dementia, Alzheimer's, chronic pain, and every disease and condition. Strengthen weakened bodies. Restore energy. Give doctors wisdom. Guide surgeons' hands. Let medications work as intended. Bring peace to caregivers and families. We pray for those fighting battles in their minds—anxiety, fear, depression, loneliness, grief, confusion, and despair. Let the peace of God guard their hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Lord, Provide for Every Need Father, remember those looking for employment. Open the right doors. Remember those who need promotions and increases. Remember families struggling financially. Remember those facing bills they do not know how they will pay. Remember those worried about food, housing, transportation, or other necessities. Your Word promises: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19 (KJV) Father, make a way where there appears to no way. Give wisdom concerning finances. Provide resources. Create opportunities. Send favor. Connect people with the right opportunities at the right time. Bless Our Families Lord, cover our families. Protect our marriages. Strengthen husbands and wives. Draw parents and children closer together. Heal broken relationships. Restore communication. Bring forgiveness where there has been hurt. Protect our children, grandchildren, siblings, parents, grandparents, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended families. Let Joshua's declaration become the declaration of our homes: “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:15 (KJV) Save those who do not know Jesus. Draw back those who have wandered away. Let our homes become places of prayer, peace, love, forgiveness, worship, and the presence of God. Order Our Steps Today Father, as we go into this Thursday, order our steps. Your Word says: “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” — Psalm 37:23 (KJV) Guide our conversations. Guide our decisions. Guide us on the highways. Guide us at work. Guide us in our homes. Guard our mouths so that our words bring life and not destruction. Give us discernment so that we recognize what comes from You and what does not. When temptation comes, give us strength to say no. When opportunity comes, give us wisdom to know whether to say yes. When trouble comes, remind us that You are already there. We Thank You in Advance Father, before we see the answer, we thank You. Before the door opens, we thank You. Before the healing manifests, we thank You. Before the breakthrough comes, we thank You. Before the financial situation changes, we thank You. Before our loved ones come to Christ, we thank You. Because our thanksgiving is not based only on what You do—it is based on who You are. You are still God. You are still faithful. You are still holy. You are still sovereign. You are still our Provider. You are still our Healer. You are still our Deliverer. You are still our Way Maker. You are still our Keeper. And You are still worthy of all the glory, all the honor, and all the praise! Thursday Declaration... Today we declare: I will not allow complaining to overpower my thanksgiving. I will not allow fear to silence my faith. I will not allow yesterday's disappointment to steal today's joy. I will not allow what I do not have to make me forget everything God has already done. I am thankful. I am blessed. I am covered. I am kept. I am loved. I am forgiven. I am redeemed. And because God has brought me this far, I believe He will carry me the rest of the way! Father, thank You for yesterday. Thank You for today. And by faith, thank You for tomorrow. May everything we say and do today bring glory to Your name. We seal this Thankful Thursday Morning Prayer in the mighty, matchless, wonderful name of Jesus Christ. Amen, Amen, and AMEN! “O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” — Psalm 107:1 (KJV) “No matter what this Thursday brings, I WILL GIVE GOD THANKS! He has been too good, too faithful, and too merciful for me to remain silent. THIS IS THE DAY THE LORD HAS MADE, AND I WILL REJOICE!”

FAITH THAT PLEASES GOD Believe, Come, and Diligently Seek Him Key Scripture: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” — Hebrews 11:6 (KJV) Thought Of The Day... There are many things we desire from God—healing, provision, direction, protection, restoration, peace, deliverance, and breakthrough. But Hebrews 11:6 turns our attention from what we want God to do for us to what pleases God. And Scripture gives us the answer: FAITH PLEASES GOD. Not perfect circumstances. Not having every answer. Not knowing how everything will work out. Faith. Faith says, “God, I may not understand what You are doing, but I still believe You.” • WITHOUT FAITH IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE GOD The Scripture does not say it is difficult to please God without faith. It says: “Without faith it is impossible to please him.” Why is faith so important? Because faith reveals where our confidence rests. When everything is going well, it can be easy to say, “I trust God.” But genuine faith is revealed when the diagnosis is uncertain, the money is tight, the family is struggling, the door has not opened, the prayer has not yet been answered, and you cannot see what God is doing. Faith says: “Even here, I trust You.” Job declared: “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.” — Job 13:15 (KJV) There will be seasons when you cannot trace God's hand. But you can still trust His heart. Your circumstances may change, but God has not changed. • YOU MUST BELIEVE THAT GOD IS! Hebrews says: “…he that cometh to God must believe that he is…” Before believing God for something, we must believe God is. He is God when you understand Him. He is God when you don't. He is God when the door opens. He is still God when the door closes. He is God when the answer comes immediately. He is still God when He makes you wait. Sometimes our faith becomes focused primarily on God's gifts: “Lord, give me this. Lord, change that. Lord, open this door.” But mature faith says: “Lord, even if You don't give me what I requested when I requested it, I still want You.” Remember the three Hebrew men standing before the fiery furnace: “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us…” — Daniel 3:17 (KJV) But then they declared: “But if not… we will not serve thy gods…” — Daniel 3:18 (KJV) That's powerful faith. God can. God is able. I believe God will. But even if He chooses another way, HE IS STILL GOD! • FAITH COMES TO GOD Notice the wording: “…he that cometh to God…” Faith doesn't run away from God during trouble. Faith runs toward God. When you're hurting—come. When you're confused—come. When you're disappointed—come. When you're weary—come. When you've made mistakes—come. When you don't know what tomorrow holds—COME TO GOD! David said: “When my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” — Psalm 61:2 (KJV) Your feelings may tell you to withdraw. Your disappointment may tell you God has forgotten you. Your circumstances may tell you prayer isn't working. But faith says: “I'm going back into His presence.” • DILIGENT FAITH DOESN'T QUIT SEEKING! The verse concludes: “…he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” There is a difference between casually seeking God and diligently seeking God. Diligence means persistence. It means you keep praying. You keep believing. You keep worshiping. You keep reading His Word. You keep serving. You keep showing up. You keep trusting God even when nothing appears to be changing. Jesus taught: “Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” — Luke 18:1 (KJV) Some answers require faith that refuses to quit. You prayed yesterday? Pray again. You worshiped yesterday? Worship again. You believed yesterday? Believe again today. Don't allow God's silence to convince you that God is absent. Silence does not mean abandonment. Waiting does not mean denial. Delay does not mean God has forgotten you. • GOD REWARDS THOSE WHO SEEK HIM! God promises that He is: “…a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” But we must understand the greatest reward of seeking God. The greatest reward is not merely receiving something from His hand—it is experiencing more of His presence. Sometimes the reward is an open door. Sometimes it is healing. Sometimes it is provision. Sometimes it is restoration. But sometimes the reward is strength to endure what God has not yet removed. Paul prayed three times for his thorn to be removed, but God's response was: “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) Paul asked for removal. God gave him sustaining grace. Never limit God's reward to one particular answer. Sometimes God changes the situation. Sometimes God changes you while you're walking through the situation. Either way, God remains faithful. DON'T STOP BELIEVING! Perhaps you have been praying about something for a long time. You've asked. You've waited. You've cried. You've prayed again. And you're wondering: “God, when will You answer me?” Hebrews 11:6 speaks directly into that season: KEEP BELIEVING. KEEP COMING. KEEP SEEKING. KEEP TRUSTING. Your faith is not wasted. Your prayers are not wasted. Your worship is not wasted. Your obedience is not wasted. God sees every moment you choose faith instead of fear. “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV) You don't need to see everything God is doing to believe God is still working. PRAYER... Heavenly Father, We come before You today declaring that You are God, and besides You there is none other. Lord, increase our faith. When we cannot see the way, help us trust You. When we don't understand what You're doing, help us trust You. When our prayers seem unanswered, help us trust You. When our bodies are hurting, our finances are strained, our families are struggling, our hearts are heavy, and our minds are weary—help us trust You! Father, forgive us for the times we allowed fear to speak louder than faith. Forgive us for the times we doubted Your goodness because we could not understand Your plan. Today we declare: YOU ARE STILL GOD! We believe that You are. We believe You are faithful. We believe You are able. We believe You are our Provider. We believe You are our Healer. We believe You are our Deliverer. We believe You are our Keeper. And we believe You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You. So we will seek You when life is good, and we will seek You when life is difficult. We will seek You when doors open, and we will seek You when doors close. We will seek You when we understand, and we will seek You when we don't. Give us faith that refuses to quit. Let our lives declare: “I DON'T HAVE TO SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT, BECAUSE I KNOW THE GOD IN WHOM I HAVE BELIEVED!” We trust Your timing. We trust Your wisdom. We trust Your Word. We trust Your plan. And most importantly, we trust You. In the mighty, matchless, powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen and Amen! DECLARATION OF FAITH... Today I declare: I WILL WALK BY FAITH AND NOT BY SIGHT! I believe God is. I believe God can. I believe God is able. I believe God is faithful. I will not allow what I see to cancel what God has spoken. I will diligently seek Him. I will keep praying. I will keep worshiping. I will keep trusting. I will keep believing. And even while I am waiting, MY FAITH WILL STILL PLEASE GOD! BELIEVE. COME. SEEK. TRUST. GOD IS STILL FAITHFUL! “But without faith it is impossible to please him…” — Hebrews 11:6 (KJV)

August 18 🌿 “WHO GOD IS TO ME” MY ROCK 📖 Psalm 18:2 (LLV) — “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I take refuge; my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold.” Life does not always give us steady ground. Circumstances change. Plans collapse. People disappoint us. Things we thought were certain suddenly are not. David knew that kind of life. He had known victory and danger. Friendship and betrayal. Celebration and fear. There were times when he literally hid among the rocks to escape those who wanted to destroy him. Perhaps that is why his words carry such confidence. “The LORD is my rock.” Not: The LORD might become my rock if trouble comes. Not: The LORD was my rock when things were difficult. The LORD is my rock. Right now. David's security was not found in the stability of his circumstances. It was found in the unchanging character of his God. Then David keeps going. “My fortress.” When danger surrounds me, God is my security. “My deliverer.” When there seems to be no way out, God is my rescuer. “My shield.” When the battle comes close, God stands between me and what would destroy me. “My stronghold.” When everything around me feels uncertain, there remains somewhere I can stand. Notice something beautiful in David's words. Again and again he says: “My.” My rock. My fortress. My deliverer. My God. My strength. My shield. My salvation. My stronghold. David was not describing a God he had merely heard about. He was describing the God he had learned to trust. There is a difference between knowing that God is a rock and being able to say, “He is my rock.” That kind of confidence is formed through walking with Him. Through storms. Through uncertainty. Through prayers answered in unexpected ways. Through discovering, again and again, that when everything else moves, God does not. The storm may still come. The ground around us may still shake. But our confidence does not rest upon the absence of trouble. It rests upon the presence of Someone who cannot be moved. A new beginning finds somewhere solid to stand: when everything around me changes, the Lord remains my rock. Reflection: What feels uncertain in my life today, and am I trying to find security in changing circumstances or in the unchanging character of God? Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being my rock when everything around me feels uncertain. You are my fortress, my deliverer, my strength, and my refuge. Teach me not merely to know these things about You, but to trust them personally. When circumstances shift beneath my feet, remind me that You have not moved. Help me stand securely in You today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Gibson Battle Align with Yehusha be with Team Yeshua and will fight your Battle : God Fights for the Remnant of Peace When you make peace with the true Joshua—Jesus Christ—you enter into a covenant that shifts your battles from your hands into God's hands. In Joshua 10, the Gibeonites were targets simply because they allied themselves with Israel. Similarly, when you align your life with the Lord, the forces of spiritual darkness may target you. However, the shadow of Jesus in this text reveals a powerful truth: God assumes your enemies as His own. He does not leave you to defend yourself. When you call upon Him in times of attack, the Lord responds with swift, supernatural deliverance. He will disrupt the enemy's plans, cause confusion in their camps, and even move the laws of nature to ensure your complete victory. Key Bible Verses from Joshua 10 The Call for Help: "The Gibeonites then sent word to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal: 'Do not abandon your servants. Come up to us quickly and save us! Help us, because all the Amorite kings from the hill country have joined forces against us.'" (Joshua 10:6) The Divine Assurance: "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand. Not one of them will be able to withstand you.'" (Joshua 10:8). The Divine Intervention: "The Lord threw them into confusion before Israel, so Joshua and the Israelites defeated them completely... As they fled before Israel... the Lord hurled large hailstones down on them, and more of them died from the hail than were killed by the swords of the Israelites." (Joshua 10:10-11) Warfare PrayerHeavenly Father, Almighty God, and Precious Holy Spirit,I come before You today under the covenant of peace established through my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ (Yeshua). Because I have surrendered my life to You, I thank You that my battles are no longer mine alone, but they belong to the Lord. According to Your Word in Joshua 10, when the enemy gathers against me because of my alignment with You, I cry out for Your urgent help. Do not abandon your servant, Lord! Come quickly to my defense. I pray that You throw every demonic alliance, every spirit of fear, and every weapon formed against my health, my family, or my destiny into total confusion. Let Your supernatural power fight on my behalf. Hurl down Your divine judgment against the spiritual forces of wickedness that attempt to steal my peace. Give me the assurance that not one of my enemies will be able to withstand Your presence. Let the sun and moon stand still, and let time work in my favor as You fulfill Your promises in my life. Thank You for complete victory and for being my shield and deliverer.In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray.Amen.

Daily devotion for August 18th Where To Begin Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. Nehemiah 9:5b This prayer in the book of Nehemiah is a great model that will teach us much for our own prayer life. It begins with a great section of praise. First, God is praised as the Creator and Maker of everything. Beginning with the life He gave you is a great place to start when you are praising God. It seems strange to me that people who are dependent every moment on God to give them life allow themselves so easily to forget that fact. God sustains us moment by moment. We ought to be grateful for that. Let us never forget that our very breath comes from Him. The next section praises God as the caller and chooser of people. He is the one who gives undeserved blessings to those He chooses. God is the keeper of promises. Not one of us would be here today if it were not for that merciful, sovereign call of God. Jesus said, No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him (John 6:44). We are here today because the Spirit of God in wondrous grace has drawn us to Himself. Then the people praise God as the deliverer from sin and its enslavement. They retell the history of this nation, beginning with the call of Abraham and their deliverance from Egypt. Some of us have forgotten the lessons God has taught us and have returned to the same sins, plunging ourselves once more into rebellion and slavery. Let us never forget that we have been wonderfully, even miraculously, delivered by the great hand of God. Praise for God as the great provider of wisdom and the necessities of life follows. Here is God's providential care of His own. He taught this people how to live in the midst of great wickedness. He knew he was sending them into a land inhabited by tribes who were morally degraded to a degree that is appalling to us today. They offered their children to the god Molech by throwing them alive into a furnace of fire. It was among these people that the Israelites had to live. Yet God taught them how to avoid defilement from those things. He taught them how to be friends with these people but not be destroyed by their immorality. It is exactly the situation we are called to live in today. God has given us this wonderful book that teaches us the rules of life, health, salvation, and deliverance and the inner strength that can resist the temptations that abound all around us. To neglect it is folly. God also supplied their needs. He gave them bread to eat when there was none. He gave them water from the rock in the middle of the desert. That is not only an account of meeting physical needs, but it describes the meeting of spiritual needs as well. The New Testament tells us these are pictures of Christ: He is the bread of life; He is the water of life. As the Israelites learned the meaning of these symbols, they began to understand that there was One coming who would fully meet the need of the human heart. Father, I praise and worship You as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, as the One who has chosen me and drawn me to Yourself and the One who provides all that I need